The Detroit Lions face a significant defensive setback after losing Aidan Hutchinson to a fractured leg, but reports indicate help could arrive by the trade deadline.
Jared Ramsey of the Detroit Free Press analyzed potential trade options before the November 5 deadline, identifying former No. 1 overall pick Jadeveon Clowney as a top prospect. Ramsey pointed out that the Carolina Panthers
Lions Encouraged to Pursue Ex-Top Pick to Strengthen Defense
The Detroit Lions face a significant defensive setback after losing Aidan Hutchinson to a fractured leg, but reports indicate help could arrive by the trade deadline.
Jared Ramsey of the Detroit Free Press analyzed potential trade options before the November 5 deadline, identifying former No. 1 overall pick Jadeveon Clowney as a top prospect. Ramsey pointed out that the Carolina Panthers, at 2-7, may be open to trading assets like Clowney.
If the Panthers are willing to make a deal, Detroit might be an ideal trade partner, according to Ramsey.
Lions Seek to Fortify Pass Rush
The Lions’ defensive line took a hit when Hutchinson got injured against the Dallas Cowboys, creating a need for a reliable pass rusher. Ramsey argued that Clowney could be a fitting addition for Detroit, offering veteran experience.
“Despite winning narrowly on Sunday, the Panthers are among several teams vying for the first pick in the 2025 draft at 2-7,” Ramsey noted. “Clowney, who joined Carolina on a two-year, $20 million contract after a 9.5-sack season with Baltimore, has played seven games, missing two due to a shoulder injury, and recorded one sack with three tackles for loss.”
Other analysts have also highlighted Clowney as a probable trade candidate. Albert Breer of SI.com reported in October that the Panthers were expected to “receive offers for multiple players,” with Clowney seen as a likely departure.
“With numerous teams needing pass-rush support, and if he’s healthy, Clowney could be in trade talks alongside players like the Browns’ Za’Darius Smith and the Packers’ Preston Smith,” Breer wrote.
Ramsey also mentioned Cleveland’s Za’Darius Smith and New Orleans’ Chase Young as potential targets for the Lions ahead of the trade deadline.
Lions Poised to Act
Ramsey noted that Lions head coach Dan Campbell has expressed interest in bolstering the roster but acknowledged the final decision may not rest with them.
“I don’t think it’s fully in our control,” Campbell told the Detroit Free Press. “Brad [Holmes] is trying hard, we’ve assessed everything, made plenty of calls, and he’s been active in exploring options. There’s still time until tomorrow night, so we’ll see.”
Campbell added that he trusts the team’s current defensive lineup and mentioned they might consider practice squad players if gaps remain post-deadline.
The Lions, currently 7-1 after defeating the Green Bay Packers, may feel added urgency to strengthen their roster, given their position atop the NFC.
, at 2-7, may be open to trading assets like Clowney.
If the Panthers are willing to make a deal, Detroit might be an ideal trade partner, according to Ramsey.
Lions Seek to Fortify Pass Rush
The Lions’ defensive line took a hit when Hutchinson got injured against the Dallas Cowboys, creating a need for a reliable pass rusher. Ramsey argued that Clowney could be a fitting addition for Detroit, offering veteran experience.
“Despite winning narrowly on Sunday, the Panthers are among several teams vying for the first pick in the 2025 draft at 2-7,” Ramsey noted. “Clowney, who joined Carolina on a two-year, $20 million contract after a 9.5-sack season with Baltimore, has played seven games, missing two due to a shoulder injury, and recorded one sack with three tackles for loss.”
Other analysts have also highlighted Clowney as a probable trade candidate. Albert Breer of SI.com reported in October that the Panthers were expected to “receive offers for multiple players,” with Clowney seen as a likely departure.
“With numerous teams needing pass-rush support, and if he’s healthy, Clowney could be in trade talks alongside players like the Browns’ Za’Darius Smith and the Packers’ Preston Smith,” Breer wrote.
Ramsey also mentioned Cleveland’s Za’Darius Smith and New Orleans’ Chase Young as potential targets for the Lions ahead of the trade deadline.
Lions Poised to Act
Ramsey noted that Lions head coach Dan Campbell has expressed interest in bolstering the roster but acknowledged the final decision may not rest with them.
“I don’t think it’s fully in our control,” Campbell told the Detroit Free Press. “Brad [Holmes] is trying hard, we’ve assessed everything, made plenty of calls, and he’s been active in exploring options. There’s still time until tomorrow night, so we’ll see.”
Campbell added that he trusts the team’s current defensive lineup and mentioned they might consider practice squad players if gaps remain post-deadline.
The Lions, currently 7-1 after defeating the Green Bay Packers, may feel added urgency to strengthen their roster, given their position atop the NFC.
